Room Service: Microtel Inn and Suites Hagerstown (Hagerstown, Maryland)

Microtel Inn and Suites Hagerstown
Hagerstown, Maryland

Sandwiched on a dead end road between a bunch of industrious businesses off the interstate, the Microtel Inn and Suites Hagerstown in Washington County, Maryland is an economy level hotel that has a certain utilitarian feel. It's a great choice for those who want to pay a more affordable price compared to a business hotel though in return, this property lacks some frills like a swimming pool or fitness centre.

Reeling from a tenuous ten hour drive from the Toronto area, we wanted to get to the property as soon as possible for at least a long shower and a quiet nap. But early check in was most definitely out of the picture as the clerk at the front desk asked us to wait for a half hour; we came when they were completely unprepared.

It's a hotel that has existed on the market for some time, and the decor felt a bit dated, but it had something other hotels were lacking: a daybed. Or window sill with couch or some other term that relates to that. It's a first for us and it was a refreshing versatile alternative to a standard couch.

As we were settling in, I caught wind of a foul smell coming out of the drawers near the desk. It wound up to be a pair of stinky stocks a previous guest left! After a bit of jocular inquiry by my counterpart the apologetic receptionist immediately offered to change our room, which was a courteous and professional act of customer service considering we were a bit too early for them. Things returned to normal quickly as we checked and accepted our new room allocation.

The standard two bed room contains a flat screen television that is in a bit of an awkward angle from the ceiling and the mirrors behind our beds felt kind of weird to say the least, clashing with the homey aim fronted by the flowery paintings hung on the wall beside the summery day bed.

At their normal rates, I was very pleasantly surprised that they would supply useful things like a pen and pad along with soap and shampoo, though they lacked conditioner and hand lotion. For the price we paid, we could bring our own without dipping too much into the wallet.

Wireless internet in this hotel was easily accessible and handy; a bit slow, but a lot more consistent than some other pricey places that we've stayed in through the years.

Eating options were plenty, with a fast food point a quick five minute walk away down the road. Continental breakfast is also included in the rate with hot waffles and bagels, which is nice at the price level of this property.

The room and amenities are basic, but this property brings good value especially compared to immediate area competitors, along with honest customer service.